To check ragging in educational institutions, University Grants Commission (UGC) has launched a helpline for the victims of ragging.

To check ragging in educational institutions, University Grants Commission (UGC) has launched a helpline for the victims of ragging.

An official spokesman said on Monday that the governing body had issued instructions to technical education and education departments to take strict action against those who indulge in ragging.

Besides, students joining universities, colleges and technical educational institutes, and their parents, would first have to submit a self-declaration, mentioning in writing that they were against ragging.

"The heads of educational institutions have also been empowered to initiate any action against the culprits. Strict action would be taken against the educational institutes found guilty of not implementing the guidelines," the spokesman added.